Manchester United officials have reportedly agreed that the club must sign two midfielders this summer, following Casemiro's announcement that he will leave when his contract expires at the end of the season. The 34-year-old Brazilian's departure would leave United with only Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo as recognised first-team central midfielders.
According to reports, United have drawn up a shortlist of Premier League midfielders, including Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Brighton's Carlos Baleba, and Bournemouth's Alex Scott. Wharton is said to be keen on joining a Champions League club, with United currently third in the table, six points clear of sixth-place Chelsea.
Meanwhile, the club is also preparing for the possible departure of Harry Maguire. The 33-year-old England defender's contract expires at the end of the season, and while United are said to want him to stay, a renewal would likely require a pay cut on his £180,000-a-week wages. Maguire has been an ever-present since Michael Carrick's appointment in mid-January and has impressed, potentially earning a recall to the England squad.
Interim head coach Michael Carrick has praised Casemiro's impact, saying he has been 'an absolute pleasure to work with,' but dismissed the idea of a new contract. Carrick noted that players come and go, and that the club must consider the balance of the squad going forward.
United are also eyeing a new left-sided winger and are exploring the centre-back market should Maguire leave. The club plans to make four major signings this summer as they look to strengthen further.
